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Ink or Polymer Chemist - Printing on PVC - North East

Reference: 2506/22
 
Location: North East
Sector: Technical, Chemist / Scientist, Technical Service, Technician / QC
Job Type: Permanent
 
Contact: Heather McArragher
Consultants Email: heather@whitehall.uk.com
Salary: Great benefits. Early finish Friday
 

Our Client is a leading global specialist for high-quality PVC films and sheets used for kitchen films and window profiles. Due to succession planning, our Client is seeking to recruit 2 chemists; Ink Chemist and Polymer Chemist.

Ink Chemist:

  • Develop and optimize solvent-based ink systems, with a focus on pigment selection, dispersion and stability.
  • Evaluate and support the development of primers to ensure strong bonding of films to polymeric substrates.
  • Conduct lab and pilot-scale gravure printing trials, managing all print parameters including cylinder selection, drying and ink transfer.
  • Troubleshoot printing issues such as colour issues, poor adhesion, solvent retention and miss printing.
  • Perform detailed visual and instrumental colour evaluations, using tools such as spectrophotometers and gloss meters.
  • Document all findings in technical reports and support the scale-up of new designs to full-scale production.
  • Collaborate with cross functional teams in formulation, product development, process engineering, and production to ensure successful implementation of print innovations.
  • Maintain knowledge of emerging pigment technologies, sustainable solvent systems, and regulatory requirements (e.g., REACH, VOC limits).

Polymer Chemist

  • Serve as a specialist in embossing techniques, creating innovative textures and patterns to enhance surface aesthetics.
  • Introduce new features to surfaces, improving functionality and aligning with market trends.
  • Develop and evaluate new products for new and existing applications, bringing them to market speedily and effectively.
  • To support product qualification and approval programmes in support of the NPD&I portfolio where appropriate.
  • Conduct laboratory experiments and testing to evaluate the properties and characteristics of films and surface coatings.
  • Provide technical support to customers regarding product specifications, application techniques, and troubleshooting assistance.
  • Assist in the evaluation of raw materials, suppliers, and vendors to ensure compliance with quality standards, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability requirements.

Package and Benefits

  • Full time role 35.5hrs per week Mon-Thurs 9-5, Fri 9-3. Homeworking not an option except in emergencies.
  • Employer contributions of up to 9% depending on employee contributions
  • EAP
  • Health and wellbeing initiatives, 
  • Employee benefits hub, 
  • Private health insurance
  • Company performance bonus (not guaranteed) but awarded annually in December 
  • Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental leave
  • Company sick pay
  • Life insurance
  • Annual leave; 25 days plus 2 days (fixed at Christmas) this is 3 days for 2025 only plus all bank holidays